Asbestos - A history of…

Dr Majed Aslam

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was once widely used in a variety of building materials, including insulation and flooring. But what is the history of asbestos, and how did we come to understand the potential dangers of exposure to this toxic mineral?

Asbestos has been used by humans for thousands of years. The ancient Greeks and Romans used asbestos to make clothing and other textiles, and it was also used as a fireproofing material. In the 19th century, asbestos became increasingly popular as a building material due to its strength, durability, and resistance to heat and fire.

It wasn't until the 20th century that the potential health hazards of asbestos exposure were fully understood. In the early 1900s, doctors began to notice an increase in the number of patients with lung diseases, such as asbestosis and lung cancer, who had worked with asbestos. In the decades that followed, more and more research was conducted on the health effects of asbestos exposure, and it became clear that it was a major health hazard.

Today, the use of asbestos is heavily regulated, and many countries have banned its use in construction materials. However, asbestos is still present in many older buildings, and workers who are at risk of exposure, such as construction workers and firefighters, must take precautions to protect themselves.

At our occupational health company, we offer medical assessments and guidance to workers who may be at risk of asbestos exposure. Contact us to learn more about how we can help protect your employees from the dangers of asbestos.